Physiotherapy at St Leonards Physio

Exercise Programs at St Leonards Physiotherapy

At St Leonards Physiotherapy, our evidence-based exercise programs are designed to help you move better, feel stronger, and live a healthier life, regardless of your age, condition, or fitness level. Whether you’re managing a chronic condition, recovering from injury, or looking to prevent future issues, our physiotherapist-led programs offer safe, structured support tailored to your individual needs.

All of our programs are run by experienced physiotherapists or exercise physiologists and are grounded in the latest clinical research. Small class sizes ensure individual attention, and every participant starts with an initial assessment so your program is tailored just for you.

Explore our specialised group programs below, or click each section for more information.

GLA:D® Program for Osteoarthritis

The GLA:D program (Good Life with osteoArthritis: Denmark) is an internationally recognised, research-based program developed for people with hip and knee osteoarthritis. This 10-week program combines education and targeted exercise to reduce pain, improve joint function, and reduce the need for surgery.

GLA:D includes:

  • An initial assessment
  • Two education sessions
  • Twice-weekly supervised exercise classes
  • Long-term follow-up at 3 and 12 months


It is ideal for anyone living with
osteoarthritis, especially those looking for alternatives to medication or surgery.

ONERO Program for Osteoporosis

The ONERO program is an evidence-based, high-intensity resistance and impact training program designed for people with osteopenia or osteoporosis. Developed by The Bone Clinic, ONERO is proven to improve bone density, strength, and balance, and significantly reduce fracture risk.

ONERO includes:

  • A 60-minute initial physiotherapy assessment
  • Twice-weekly group classes supervised by ONERO-accredited physiotherapists
  • Ongoing monitoring and individualised progression

ONERO is suitable for anyone looking for safe and effective physio-led osteoporosis treatment in a supportive, social environment.

BEAT IT Program for Diabetes

BEAT IT is a 10-week program developed by Diabetes NSW/ACT to help people with type 2 diabetes improve health outcomes through safe, structured exercise and lifestyle changes. It is run by physiotherapists and exercise physiologists who are specially trained in diabetes management.

BEAT IT includes:

  • An individual initial consultation
  • Twice-weekly small group exercise sessions
  • Education on managing diabetes, lifestyle and health habits

The initial term is free for participants registered with the NDSS (National Diabetes Services Scheme), making this an accessible, supportive option for managing diabetes through physiotherapy.

Group Therapy

Our Group Therapy classes are tailored, small-group physio exercise sessions designed to help manage a wide range of musculoskeletal issues, chronic pain, postural problems, and more. These classes involve targeted strength, mobility and balance exercises, and focus on restoring healthy movement patterns and physical function.

Every participant begins with a 1:1 physiotherapy assessment to develop a personalised exercise program that is then carried out in a fully supervised small group (maximum 4 participants).

These classes are suitable for:

  • Chronic musculoskeletal conditions
  • Post-surgical rehab
  • General strength, flexibility, and movement training

Adolescent Group Classes

Our Adolescent Group Physio Classes are designed for children and teens aged 7–16 years old. Led by an experienced paediatric physiotherapist, these sessions focus on strength, flexibility, posture, coordination, and body awareness in a safe and supportive environment.

They’re ideal for:

  • Children recovering from injury or surgery
  • Kids with conditions like hypermobility, low muscle tone, scoliosis or Osgood-Schlatter’s
  • Teens looking to improve fitness, movement, and confidence

Each 9-week term includes a mix of exercises, education, and fun, age-appropriate activities that support healthy development and injury prevention.

adolescent physio classes

Not sure which program is right for you?

Contact our friendly admin team, and we’ll help guide you to the best fit for your needs. All programs begin with an individual assessment to ensure safety and effectiveness, and private health rebates may apply depending on your cover.

Jacques O’Hearn

M.Physio (Physiotherapy) B.App.Sc (exercise and Sports Science)

Jacques is a physiotherapist with a strong foundation in exercise science and several years of experience delivering exercise-based rehabilitation in both individual and group settings. After completing his Bachelor of Exercise and Sport Science at the University of Sydney, he went on to graduate with a Master of Physiotherapy from UTS, gaining broad clinical experience across musculoskeletal, orthopaedic, and neurological settings.

Jacques takes a thoughtful and collaborative approach to treatment, focusing on clear assessment, patient education, and evidence-based exercise rehabilitation. He enjoys helping people return to the activities they love, striving to make rehabilitation meaningful, achievable, and tailored to each individual. His experience in delivering structured exercise programs has strengthened his ability to coach movement effectively, progress programs safely, and support people of all fitness levels.

In the clinic, Jacques combines hands-on therapy with targeted strength and conditioning and movement retraining. He values good communication, rapport building, and empowering patients with the tools and confidence they need to manage their health long-term.

Outside of work, Jacques enjoys spending time at the beach, playing golf, participating in social sports and strength training, and exploring the Northern Beaches with his wife.

Jacques O'hearn - Physio